International Humanitarian Law

International Humanitarian Law (IHL), also known as the law of war or law of armed conflict, is a set of rules which seek, for humanitarian reasons, to limit the effects of armed conflict. It protects persons who are not or are no longer participating in the hostilities and restricts the means and methods of warfare.

Overview

International Humanitarian Law is part of international law, which is the body of rules governing relations between states. IHL regulates the conduct of armed hostilities. It also protects civilians, prisoners of war, the wounded, sick, and shipwrecked.

History

The roots of IHL can be traced back to the Hippocratic Oath, which forbade doctors from harming anyone under their care, whether friend or enemy. The first Geneva Convention, adopted in 1864, marked the beginning of modern IHL.

Principles

IHL is based on the principles of humanity, which prohibits the infliction of suffering, injury or destruction unnecessary to accomplish a legitimate military purpose, and military necessity, which allows measures which are actually necessary to accomplish a legitimate military purpose and are not otherwise prohibited by international humanitarian law.

Implementation

The implementation of IHL is primarily the responsibility of the states. However, international organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) also play a crucial role in ensuring the application and respect of these laws.

Violations

Violations of IHL are considered war crimes. These can be prosecuted by national courts, international courts or by mixed tribunals.

See also

• War crime
• Geneva Conventions
• International Committee of the Red Cross